Nigerian-born winger Bobby Adekanye has penned an emotional farewell message to Liverpool and their supporters ahead of his departure from the Anfield side this summer.

The former Ajax Amsterdam and Barcelona wonderkid has opted not to renew his contract with The Reds after failing to break into the first team and has been strongly linked with a switch to Italian outfit Lazio in the summer transfer window.

Writing on social media, Adekanye stated : ''Four years ago when I arrived at Liverpool I was still a child. Now I leave as a man and I take with me a new family which I'll feel is mine forever.

''It's not easy finding the right words for thanking everything Liverpool FC has given to me these years.

''To every coach I had in Academy and Melwood, to every team-mate I shared good moments with, to every employee who was always by my side, thanks a lot.

''I don't know how or when but I'm sure we'll meet again someday. Stand by with me on June 1. I'll be one more helping the team to win the Champions League final. #YNWA.''

A Netherlands youth international, Adekanye has not played for Liverpool youth teams in an official game since November 2018 due to his contract standoff with the club.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel